Brandon Aiyuk

ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports the Patriots “have decided not to explore any further trade possibilities” with the 49ers for WR Brandon Aiyuk.

The Patriots were rumored earlier to have framework of a deal with the 49ers for Aiyuk, but are now out on the 26-year-old. NBC Sports Bay Area’s Matt Maiocco added that the Patriots were prepared to offer the largest deal among the Aiyuk suitors, over $30 million per year. Aiyuk likely declined the Patriots as a destination more than their offer, or the 49ers did not want to deal him for the Pats’ return. Schefter adds that the Patriots “are excited about their young receivers and want to focus on them.” Rookies Ja’Lynn Polk and Javon Baker join DeMario Douglas as the team’s wideouts under 25. K.J. Osborn and Kendrick Bourne (recovering from a torn ACL) are the veterans of the group. Third overall pick Drake Maye would have benefitted from a No. 1 receiver like Aiyuk but the Patriots are doubling-down on their drafted wideouts. The sweepstakes narrow to the Browns and Steelers as the other teams most rumored to be in the running for Aiyuk.